VOSA gets green light to stop illegal drivers in Scotland
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VOSA WILL BE able to take deposits from foreign drivers that commit offences in Scotland from next month, granting it a full range of enforcement powers for the first time.
Since 4 April 2011, the agency has gained powers to stop CVs in Scotland without a police presence – something it has been able to do in England and Wales since 2002.
VOSA enforcement manager Karen Farr says: “We intend to start taking deposits from drivers without a satisfactory address in the UK from next month in Scotland.
“Given that we now have powers to stop, the introduction of the deposit scheme will see VOSA’s enforcement teams in Scotland using a range of powers. This means safer roads and a more level playing field for compliant operators.” Road Haulage Association chief executive Geoff Dunning says: “It’s good news but a pity it’s taken so long to happen. It was frustrating that inconsistencies existed across the UK. They’ve caught up now and that’s most welcome, especially as there’s a high proportion of foreign vehicles travelling from Scotland into the rest of the UK.” In 2008/09, VOSA officers stopped 310 foreign-registered vehicles for roadworthiness spot checks in Scotland, which more than a third (37.4%) failed. The top three countries by prohibitions is topped by Poland, followed by Ireland and Spain.